4 Times When Your Boyfriend Can't Be Your Best Friend

It's really important to talk to your significant other. In fact, new research shows that happy couples spend five hours a week or more just talking. But no matter how close you are with your guy, there are simply some things you don't need to tell him (that's what your girlfriends are for). Here are four times when mum may be the best word:

__1. Your ex called.__Whether he's the one who got away or the one you're glad you let go, there's no need to give your current flame the play-by-play of this particular phone call. On the other hand, you can tell your bestie everything—word for word, the entire conversation.

2. You dropped $200 (or more) on new shoes. It's your money, sure. But no man will get or appreciate this splurge. If he mentions it, simply say, "Nordstrom had a sale today." Meanwhile, you can tell your best friend the truth: "The Nordstrom sale sucked, so I wandered into Saks, where I found the perfect pumps to go with that new dress I bought."

__3. You ran into his ex. __We all hate when this happens—but when the uncomfortable occurs, it's best to put your polite and mature face forward. Say hi if she sees you, and keep the conversation short and sweet. Only mention it to him if you have to, and leave it at "She was nice."

__4. You've got raging PMS and feel miserable.__Yes, he probably will bear some of the brunt of your bad mood. But try not to force your beau to duck and cover with all the extra details about how many ice cream bars you've eaten and how much it sucks that your pants are so tight.